45th Annual - Polar Bear Winter Classic

45th Annual - Polar Bear Winter Classic

Saturday, February 27, 2027

Fowling Warehouse Indianapolis

SJC Racing is proud to continue the tradition of one of the oldest races in Indianapolis: the 45th Annual Polar Bear Winter Classic. We heard great feedback about the new location, and we'll be back at Fowling Warehouse for 2027! This historic race is strategically placed on the calendar during the second half of February to be the first major road race of the year in Indy.

The race offers a unique format including a 5K, 5 Mile or The Bear (5K + 5 Mile). The Bear is the challenge that allows you to run both distances, one after the other, for a total of 8.1 miles.

SWAG - The first 1000 registrants are guaranteed a finisher medal and "Wear the Bear" winter hat. We also have an optional long sleeve and hoodie available as an add on during registration or directly from the race store. Continuing with tradition, the Polar Bear Winter Classic offers cash prizes and age group awards in all three event distances. Post-race celebration will be inside at the Fowling Warehouse.

Event Schedule

• 7:00 - 8:20 AM: Packet Pickup for 5K and Bear and Race Day Registration. 5 Mile Racers can pick up packets until 8:45 AM.
• 8:30 AM: 5K start
• 9:15 AM: 5 Mile start
• 11:00 AM: Post-race party at The Fowling Warehouse (Your entry comes with a ticket for one free drink of your choice: A Local Beer, Athletic Brewing, or Fountain Drink)

Packet Pickup

• Friday: Feb 21st, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM at The Fowling Warehouse (1125 E Brookside Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46202)
• Saturday (Race Morning): 7:00 AM onwards at The Fowling Warehouse

Course Information

• 5K Run: 5K distance. Walkers allowed. Dogs allowed on leash.
• 5 Mile Run: 5 Mile distance. Walkers must maintain a 16 min/mile pace. Dogs not allowed.
• The Bear (5K + 5 Mile): Combined distance of 8.1 miles (13.05K). Must complete 5K within 45 minutes to start 5 Mile.
• Virtual Options: Virtual 5k, Virtual 5 Mile, Virtual Bear (5k + 5 Mile)